World News 19-12-2003 Michael Jackson: Nine Charges who: Michael Jackson what: Charged with seven counts of child molestation and two of intoxicating a minor where: Santa Barbara, California when: Yesterday snippet: "After a decade of rumours," says The Times, "Michael Jackson was formally charged yesterday on seven counts of child molestation and two counts of giving a minor intoxicating liquor. All the charges involve the same alleged victim. If they are proved, the pop singer faces up to 24 years in jail." "The accusations alleged `substantial sexual conduct` between Jackson, 45, and the boy — referred to as John Doe in the court papers," says The Sun. "He is believed to be cancer victim Gavin Arvizo, who was 12 at the time." Jackson was arrested last month and his passport confiscated "following a highly-publicised police raid on his Neverland Ranch in California," recalls the BBC. "The star, out on $3m bail, has called the allegations a `big lie` and will appear in court on 16 January." Santa Barbara District Attorney Tom Sneddon told the media that "all parties involved in the case had signed stipulations allowing Jackson to travel to England to promote his new album, Number Ones," reports The Evening Standard`s website, thisislondon.com. "He added that the pop superstar could travel to the UK only." [... more]

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